PMDD: The Condition That Can Be Mistaken for Everything Else | Pheobe Williams | EP 101

**What is PMDD — and why does it matter at work?** In this Lunch & Learn session, Henpicked's Sally Leech sits down with Phoebe Williams, CEO and founder of The PMDD Project, to open up an important and often misunderstood conversation about premenstrual dysphoric disorder. PMDD affects roughly 1 in 20 people and can be so severe it's classified as a disability under the Equality Act 2010 — yet many who live with it spend years being dismissed, misdiagnosed, or simply not believed. Henpicked is proud to be a supporter of The PMDD Project, having donated £5,000 from the Menstruation and Menopause Friendly Employer Awards 2025 event — a testament to their commitment to championing menstrual health in and beyond the workplace. **Together, we explore:** - **(00:01:07)** What PMDD actually is — and how it differs from PMS - **(00:02:29)** The symptoms: from severe anxiety and depression to suicidal ideation, and why it's so often missed - **(00:04:32)** Why PMDD is frequently misdiagnosed as bipolar disorder or depression — and the importance of cycle tracking - **(00:05:59)** Phoebe's personal journey: living with PMDD from her teens without knowing what it was - **(00:10:07)** How diagnosis works, and why persistence with healthcare professionals is often essential - **(00:11:46)** Treatment options — from SSRIs and luteal-phase dosing to lifestyle changes, supplements, and therapy - **(00:14:37)** What causes PMDD — genetics, trauma, and the emerging links with neurodiversity (autism and ADHD) - **(00:16:29)** The relationship between PMDD and perimenopause, and why hormonal sensitivity can make menopause particularly challenging - **(00:21:36)** Practical strategies for navigating life with PMDD — including diary planning, building a luteal phase toolkit, and tapping into community - **(00:25:11)** The work of The PMDD Project: supporting individuals, training healthcare professionals, and educating employers PMDD doesn't just affect people at home — it affects them at work, in their relationships, and in how they see themselves. This session is for anyone who wants to understand it better, whether you're living with it, supporting someone who is, or leading a team. *If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or are in crisis, please reach out to the Samaritans or your local emergency services. You are not alone.* * * * **Find out more about The PMDD Project:** thepmddproject.org @thepmddproject **About Henpicked:** Henpicked is the home of the Menopause Friendly Accreditation — supporting organisations to create truly inclusive, informed workplaces for everyone experiencing menopause and menstruation. Find out more at menopausefriendly.co.uk